New York Representative’s Involvement with Anti-Abortion Group Sparks Controversy
New York Congressman Mike Lawler has recently faced scrutiny for his participation in a fundraising event supporting a controversial anti-abortion organization, contradicting his earlier campaign promises to maintain a “mainstream position” on reproductive rights.
On October 20, Lawler shared images on his social media from the 39th Annual Love Life Fundraising Banquet, benefiting the Care Net Pregnancy Center of Rockland, located within his congressional district.
These types of establishments, also known as crisis pregnancy centers, are nonprofit organizations that aim to deter women from seeking abortions. Critics argue that such centers often masquerade as legitimate healthcare providers, potentially misleading vulnerable individuals.
According to Planned Parenthood, “Most anti-abortion crisis pregnancy centers are not licensed as medical clinics. Workers and volunteers often give the impression of being medical providers by wearing white coats, talking to clients in a private area with an examination table, and collecting health information; however, they often have no medical training.”
Lawler’s presence at the event in October 2023 included posing alongside the center’s executive director. Following this, he cast a vote in favor of the Supporting Pregnant and Parenting Women and Families Act, which sought to prevent states from restricting federal funds for pregnancy centers. Although the bill passed in the House, it was stopped in the Senate.
On his 2024 campaign website, Lawler has devoted a section to his stance on abortion rights, emphasizing his commitment to “ensure access to contraception.” This is part of his broader effort to address potential electoral challenges.
Contradictorily, the website of the Care Net Pregnancy Center of Rockland includes statements discrediting emergency contraception like Plan B, labeling it as an “abortifacient,” a description not supported by the majority of the medical field.
The organizing group for the fundraiser, Love Life, has previously advocated for the defunding of Planned Parenthood, which offers a range of healthcare services, including affordable contraception.
As Lawler campaigns for a third term, the topic of abortion is anticipated to remain a significant issue. DCCC spokesperson Riya Vashi commented, “Mike Lawler has spent his entire career attacking reproductive freedom. Lawler can’t hide the reality of his anti-choice extremism, and it won’t bode well for him come 2026.”
The post GOP Rep. Mike Lawler raises money for radical anti-abortion group appeared first on American Journal News.
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